Termites are one of the most destructive pests that can invade your home, causing significant damage to wooden structures and furniture. Identifying a termite infestation early can save you from costly repairs. Here are the telltale signs that you might need to call a professional for termite treatment:
Visible Termite Swarms
Termites swarm to start new colonies, and if you spot flying termites or discarded wings, especially near sources of light, it is a strong indication of an active infestation nearby.
Hollow or Blistered Wood
Termites consume wood from the inside out, leaving behind a thin veneer of timber or paint. If you tap on what should be solid wood and it sounds hollow, or if you notice blistering pieces of wood, termites may be to blame.
Mud Tubes
Subterranean termites create mud tubes as protective tunnels from their nest to their food sources. Check your home’s foundation walls, support piers, sill plates, floor joists or other dark, enclosed areas for these pencil-sized tubes.
Frass (Termite Droppings)
Drywood termites leave behind frass, which are their droppings, as they eat through infested wood. Look for small, pellet-like droppings or dark powdery substances around the wooden areas of your home.
Tight Fitting Doors and Hard-to-Open Windows
Termites produce moisture when eating and tunneling through door and window frames, which can cause wood to warp, making doors and windows tight and difficult to open.
Cracks or Distortion in Paint or Wood Surfaces
While not always a sign of termites, cracks or bubbling paint can be indicative of moisture and possibly termite activity underneath.
Damaged or Hollow-Sounding Wood
When termites consume wood, they often leave thin layers intact. Over time, these areas can collapse or become hollow-sounding when tapped or pressed.
Soft Wood That Easily Punctures
If a screwdriver or other tool easily punctures your wood structures, it may be due to termite damage.
Sounds from the Walls
A soft clicking or rustling sound coming from the walls may indicate that termites are feasting away on your home’s timber.
Identifying termite activity can be difficult, so at the first sign of trouble, it’s prudent to seek professional advice. A licensed pest control expert can confirm whether termites are present and recommend an appropriate course of action to prevent further damage to your property.